Masks of World – Book

A famous women’s society mask

Q: I have two Masks which I inherited and that I would like a quote on for an appraisal. Hopefully you can help me with this. Here is the 1st mask. Thanks, Len, 845

A: I will be glad to appraise your two masks and will respond separately. In the meantime, I want our viewers to see this Sande Women’s Society helmet mask made by the Mende people of Sierra Leone, and used for various rights of passage in that culture. Of all the interesting masks made in West Africa, this is one of the few worn by women and girls. Otherwise, all African masks, even those depicting female characters, are danced by men. This particular mask is simple and not well carved, but it still could be an important addition to someone’s collection.